Sunday, November 28, 2010

The Decision

Kim and I have been discussing mission work for the last 15 years. We discussed it as a worthy retirement pursuit or something to do when the kids run off to college. We were in a race, caught in the middle of a crowd, a mass of people all moving together towards something. A undefined goal, an object constantly moving and illusive. Financial success defines it as well as any other term and every few years it was redefined, like a carrot on the end of a stick. We were both busy pursuing our definition of financial success, when we heard the call. It wasn't a slap in the face or a voice, but a subtle urging within to do something. That this worldly pursuit was never going to satisfy. That filling the bank account is not going to fill the soul. There was a purpose God had made us, there is a reason God had brought us together for and it was not to accumulate stuff to stick in the attic or to make a little extra so that we can a can keep Outback Steakhouse in business. No, we both knew that God had a greater purpose for our lives, and we had yet to live it. We both felt a growing restlessness, and in Mar 2009 we both decided that we would slowly move towards mission work. We setup a great five year plan, with a year by year progression. I must say we were very proud of our thoughtful strategic plan. However, God was not impressed and He did not buy in to our masterpiece. We had finally submitted ourselves to Him and apparently the fields are ready for harvest and He needs workers in the fields now! Within one year of that discussion we were presented with the opportunity in Nicaragua. It was clearly God calling and the only response to God when he calls is "here am I, send me".

1 comment:

Hi, I am a friend of the Hennigers and I happened to see Kim's status on FB (via Caryn) about your move. My husband Tommy and I are part of the team that is planning to move to Jinotega (Mision para Cristo) with David & Caryn this year. A day or two after you get to Leon, Tommy & I and our friend Jill will be coming to Jinotega (through Managua) to visit for about a week. I don't know if that means anything, but I thought it couldn't hurt to let you know that there will be other Americans relatively nearby. Your story sounds very similar to our own story (shifting focus from money and things to God's purpose). Our plan right now is to be in Nicaragua for 5 years (Lord willing), so I think there's a very good chance we'll see each other. Meanwhile, God be with you on your move. Hopefully that will be us later this year...

Mark 16:15

We moved to Leon, Nicaragua in January 2011 to work with the Nicaragua Christian School and six preachers that are sponsored by Campbell Street Church of Christ. We are so thankful that God presented us with this opportunity and are humbled by the encouragement and support we have received.